Handling & safety. Typical wood-dust irritation possible; standard precautions
Properties
| Latin name | Populus alba |
|---|---|
| Species type | Hardwood |
| Origin | Southern and central Europe into western Asia; widely planted and naturalized, including in the UK |
| Density | 420 kg/m³ |
| Janka hardness | 1,800 N |
| Modulus of rupture | 55 MPa |
| Elastic modulus | 8 GPa |
| Crushing strength | 28 MPa |
| Specific gravity | 0.35 |
| Porosity | Diffuse-porous |
| Tangential shrinkage | 6% |
| Radial shrinkage | 2.5% |
| Volumetric shrinkage | 8.8% |
| T/R ratio | 2.4 |
| Durability (EN 350) | Class 5 |
Density and mechanical properties are typical values at around 12% moisture content. Shrinkage figures represent total dimensional change from fibre saturation to oven dry. Individual boards vary.
Description
Anatomy
- Porosity: Diffuse-Porous
- Vessel Arrangement: Diffuse-porous; pores small and evenly distributed
- Vessel Description: Small pores; low visibility without magnification
- Parenchyma: Very subtle
- Rays: Fine rays; generally inconspicuous
Durability
- Durability Class: Class 5 — Perishable
Non-durable; not suitable for exterior use without treatment
Odor
No characteristic odor
Uses & Availability
Common Uses
Interior joinery, painted furniture, boxes, lightweight panels, core stock, sometimes veneer
Pricing & Availability
Generally available as poplar; usually low to moderate cost; often sold as mixed Populus species
Conservation
- CITES Status: Unlisted
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Lookalikes & Substitutes
Aspen (Populus tremula), other poplars/cottonwoods; lime/basswood for carving and painted work
Additional Sources
European timber datasheets; forestry species accounts; woodworking references
Working the timber
Very easy to machine but can be fuzzy; sharp cutters and sanding needed; low density so dents easily
Finishing & gluing
Paints well; clear finishes keep it pale; staining can appear uneven—seal first
Generally good